"All of us make many mistakes. Anyone who makes no mistakes in speaking is perfect", wrote James over 19 centuries ago. Much has changed since then. Yet, for all but the most saintly, malicious gossip continues to fascinate.

Cruel words, even if uttered thoughtlessly, can wound. And rumours about individuals, as well as stereotypes about groups of people, can quickly spread. "How great a forest is set ablaze by a small fire! And the tongue is a fire", he warned.

In an era of electronic communication, the hazards are all the greater. In an instant, reputations can be trashed or minorities widely vilified. Power-hungry politicians and community leaders can even exploit this to lay the ground for "purges" of dissidents, ethnic or social "cleansing". Even highly educated people may be persuaded by half-truths or lies, especially if these are repeated often enough or tie in with a commonly-held prejudice. And, especially during times of insecurity or crisis, scapegoating may have a powerful appeal.

The letter of James particularly challenges Christians.

"Every species of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by the human species, but no one can tame the tongue – a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and brackish water?"

The identity of the author is uncertain, but he was clearly familiar with the Jewish wisdom tradition and its warnings against backbiting and slander. He also echoed certain prophets in denouncing religious observance as pointless unless it was linked with love of one's neighbours, especially the poor and marginalised. He counselled against being judgmental: "There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and to destroy. So who, then, are you to judge your neighbour?"

This is something which church members, and leaders in particular, would do well to keep in mind. But what he said should be heard by everyone who tries to lead an ethical life and occasionally tempted to say, or repeat, something which is unnecessarily hurtful.